By Allison McGowan, District Student and Family Support Coordinator

This year Allison McGowan, the new District Student and Family Support Coordinator, along with Gabrielle Vivona, Jana Phelps, Courtney Koukourdelis, and Deirdre Brown, the School Counselors in each of the four schools in the district, worked together with the staff, students, parents, and other members of the Eatontown Public Schools Community to raise a combined total of $2,718.01 for fellow members of our community. A total of 41 sponsors participated in fulfilling 102 wish lists and brightening the holiday season for 125 children right here in Eatontown. 

To everyone who helped make such a significant impact this year, your support, generosity, kindness, and willingness to help have made a meaningful difference. We are truly grateful for everything you do to lift up our school and create a carding and connected community. Thank you for spreading the cheer and making the magic happen!

By Jill Lauren Quaranta, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent

The 2026 Educators of the Year have been announced, and we want to celebrate them! Winners were selected by a committee of their peers based on how they demonstrate exceptional skill and dedication in their roles as educators, how they inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn, and their roles as active members of their schools and the broader community. Each of these outstanding individuals has made a significant impact in their roles, showing leadership and innovation both inside and outside of the classroom, and they have earned the respect and admiration of students, families, administrators, and colleagues. See below to learn more about the 2026 winners. 

Margaret L. Vetter School
Click here for more information

Woodmere School
More information coming soon.

Q: What made you want to become an educator?

A: I’ve wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in kindergarten. I’ve always loved school and learning. I really enjoy working with kids and helping them to learn and grow.

Q: What is a fun fact about you that may surprise people?
A: A fun fact about me is that I am a huge horror fan. My favorite types of movies and books are horror.

Woodmere School
More information coming soon.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
A: The best piece of advice I’ve been given is to go with your gut. It’s a reminder to always trust my instincts. They will lead me in the right direction.

Q: What is your favorite part about your job and why?
A: My favorite part about my job is seeing my students grow throughout the years. I teach grades 6-8 so I have the opportunity to see my students grow up over 3 years. This is my favorite part because I get to form good relationships with them and I enjoy seeing the people they are becoming.

Q: What is your favorite memory from working here?
A: My favorite memories come from the annual 8th grade Washington, D.C. trips. I love going there each year and seeing the students exploring things that they’ve learned about during their time in middle school. It’s always so much fun every year.

Woodmere School
More information coming soon.

Meadowbrook School
More information coming soon.

Q: What made you want to become an educator?

A: I’ve always enjoyed helping people. I love helping others realize their full potential and then, if fortunate enough, see them achieve their goals or discover where they were always meant to be!

Memorial School
More information coming soon.

Margaret L. Vetter School
More information coming soon.

Woodmere School
More information coming soon.

Q: What is a fun fact about you that may surprise people?

A: I grew up and went to the Eatontown schools as a child. Eatontown will always be my home. It is such an honor to be teaching in the same halls that I once walked through as a student and now a teacher. I also love seeing my former teachers who I had as a student who so lovingly say, “ We knew that you would always be a teacher”. 

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

A: My mother always said to “stay true to yourself”. I find that is the best piece of advice given because it is important to remember your roots, your purpose and your WHY for doing anything. I’ll never forget when she tells the story about me coloring the sun purple when I was a little girl and people would ask her, “ Why are you letting her color the sun purple and not yellow”? She then added, “Because I want her to become who she is meant to be and never stop her. So if she wants to color the sun purple- why not”! I hold this dear to my heart, especially when teaching our students to help them reach their full potential and discover who they really are. 

Q: What is your favorite part about your job and why?

A: My favorite part about my job is being able to see my students grow from the time they are little to 8th grade. I love when I have students who come back and visit me or email me saying how they are doing in high school. I also love being able to have students in music class, band and chorus starting in 4th grade to 8th grade. The changes I am able to witness with seeing how much they grow musically and individually is wonderful. 

Q: What is your favorite memory from working here?

A: My favorite memory working here is my Broadway spring concert. That year the 8th grade class who graduated decided to surprise me at the end of our concert with flowers, a card, and a hand made name plate with the Wicked colors for the songs we had performed that year. Those students also grew up so much musically and individually, I was so very proud of them and touched that they thought of me and wanted to thank me. Our concerts are such a highlight for our students and showcase their talents! 

Q: What made you want to become an educator?

A: My desire to become an educator grew from a deep commitment to helping children feel supported, capable, and valued. I have always been inspired by the impact a caring and consistent adult can have on a child’s academic growth and personal confidence. The opportunity to build meaningful relationships, guide students through challenges, and celebrate their successes is what made me want to be in this profession.

Q: What is a fun fact about you that may surprise people?

A: I’m a first-generation American. My parents immigrated to the United States from Italy in their twenties, and growing up between two cultures has shaped who I am. Italian and English were both spoken in our home.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

A: A piece of advice someone once gave me was to always focus on what I can control. It has helped me stay grounded, make clearer decisions, and navigate challenges with a positive mindset.

Q: What is your favorite part about your job and why?

A: My favorite part of my job as a teacher is watching my students grow and succeed. I love seeing the “lightbulb” moments when a concept clicks or when a student gains confidence in their abilities.I also enjoy collaborating with colleagues and families to create a positive, engaging classroom environment where every student feels valued and capable.

Q: What is your favorite memory from working here?

A: My favorite memory from working here is from a field day when I was racing some of our students on the inflatable obstacle course. It was so much fun to see their excitement and laughter as we all raced together. 

Q: What made you want to become an educator?

A: I was always interested in the medical field and education with the goal of working with children. As an undergraduate, one of my professors introduced me to a professor at Bucknell University and suggested the school psychology program. After numerous experiential internships and research positions, I knew that I had found my niche.

Q: What is a fun fact about you that may surprise people?

A: When I grow up, I would like to be a professional chef.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given? 

A: The best piece of advice was to trust your instincts and follow your heart because it will always lead you in the right direction.

Q: What is your favorite part about your job and why?

A: Because I work with our youngest learners, the best part of my job are the “aha moments.” Those moments when working with my colleagues that a student has a moment of discovery and breakthrough which can be a first word, building social skills, writing their name and independence are very rewarding.

Q: What is your favorite memory from working here?

A: I have so many wonderful Eatontown memories that I will carry with me into my retirement. Some of my favorite involve students returning to the school to visit or returning with their own children to enter the preschool program. I will also always treasure the friendships and many laughs shared with my fellow teachers.

Q: What made you want to become an educator?

A: I love helping children to learn. It’s always a positive and rewarding experience for me.

Q: What is a fun fact about you that may surprise people?

A: I’m always up for anything and trying new things.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

A: The best advice I have ever been given came from my mom. She told me to always follow my heart.

Q: What is your favorite part about your job and why?

A: My favorite part is getting to work side-by-side with my teacher and feeling the positivity the students give me each day. My teacher has taught me so much and always makes me feel appreciated.

Q: What is your favorite memory from working here?

A: My favorite memory was definitely this recent memory of hearing my name announced over the loud speaker for this recognition and hearing the very kind words my principal shared about me.

Eatontown Public Schools is hiring! If you or someone you know is interested in working with us, take a look at the job openings we currently have available, including:

• School Bus Driver

• Middle School Math Teacher
• Middle School ELA Teacher

Visit the Careers & Employment page of the district website to see all of our current job openings and learn more about what it's like to work in the district.

Please send letter of interest, resume and copies of certificates (if applicable) to jobs@eatontown.org.

By Samantha Visinski, Preschool Program Administrative Assistant

Eatontown Public Schools wishes our students, families, staff, and community members a happy and healthy holiday season! To spread festive cheer, our preschoolers rolled through their Wheels curriculum study and wrapped up with a special classroom celebration inspired by The Polar Express.

All aboard! Students and their loved ones came together before winter recess to build gingerbread trains, exploring how wheels help things move while brainstorming their designs together. It was a sweet treat to share what our students learned over the past few weeks and such a memorable way to end the year.

This joyful celebration highlighted not only our students’ learning, but also the strong connection between school and family. We are grateful to our families for joining us and helping make this experience. 

We will be kicking off the new year with the exercise unit! Preschoolers will explore healthy habits, practice simple yoga poses, and get moving with fun activities like hula hoops—just to name a few. We can’t wait to learn, move, and grow together!

By Tiffany Boufford, Meadowbrook School Principal

This season has been filled with excitement, creativity, and meaningful partnerships as Meadowbrook School continued its mission to strengthen the bond between home and school. Our staff has been dedicated to offering enriching opportunities for families to learn, play, and grow together.

One of the highlights of the month was our Family Fun Night, themed around the beloved Jan Brett classic The Mitten. Students and their families enjoyed hands-on activities inspired by the story and ended the night with a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Our Preschool Team also wrapped up their wheels unit in style—with a heartwarming gingerbread train family celebration. Children and their families worked side by side to build deliciously creative trains, making memories while reinforcing early learning concepts.

Lucca Pala wins the Epic Treasure Chest

Students receive their Book Blast books to bring home.

In first grade, the gym was filled with excitement during the annual Sugar Tree Decorating Event. Families came together to decorate festively themed sugar cone trees, building community spirit and creating a colorful display enjoyed by all.

Looking ahead, our Kindergarten Team is preparing a winter-themed “Melted Snowman” family involvement activity in January. We can’t wait to see the creativity and collaboration this event will inspire!

Beyond our in-school events, our first graders brought Meadowbrook’s spirit into the community. Students visited Eatontown Borough Hall to decorate the town tree with their handmade ornaments. The trip concluded with a festive treat—holiday songs performed by the Vetter Chorus at the Community Center.

December also brought excitement through our schoolwide Book Blast literacy event. On December 12th, our hard-working “student agents” received their well-earned prizes: brand-new BOOKS to take home and enjoy! Their enthusiasm for reading was truly inspiring.

As we reflect on the month, we are grateful for the strong partnerships that make Meadowbrook so special. Thank you to our families for your involvement, your energy, and your support. We look forward to many more opportunities to come together in the new year!

Annual door decorating contests are a fun and meaningful way to engage students while building a positive school culture and reinforcing social-emotional learning concepts. These contests encourage creativity, teamwork, and self-expression as students collaborate to plan, design, and bring ideas to life. The contests also help foster school pride and a sense of belonging, making hallways more welcoming and engaging learning environments. This year, both Woodmere School and Vetter School held door decorating contests. See below for the winners!

By Dr. Megan Okuniewicz, Principal of Woodmere School

Woodmere School's FIRST annual Door Decorating Contest was held in December and once the doors were ready, students toured the school and voted for their favorite door. Here are the Woodmere winners!

Officer Tony caught some elves on the shelves... and then they escaped!

By Danna Valenti, Special Education Teacher at Margaret L. Vetter School

Margaret L. Vetter School's annual winter "Deck the Halls" Door Decorating Contest was held in December and once the doors were ready, photos of all of the entries were shared with staff and families so everyone could vote for their favorites. Even The Grinch himself stopped by to check out the festive doors! 

By Kristoffer Brogna, Memorial School Principal

At Memorial Middle School, winter does not slow our momentum, it ignites it. As we shift into the colder months, our athletic program is rolling out a full lineup of opportunities that keep our students active, engaged, and thriving. This season, we are excited to offer boys' basketball, girls' basketball, cheerleading, dance team, and, making its highly anticipated debut, our brand-new wrestling program. Each team brings its own energy, its own challenges, and its own way for students to shine.

Our boys' and girls' basketball teams are already gearing up with strong rosters and even stronger school pride. With a focus on teamwork, effort, and next-play mentality, both programs continue to give our athletes a platform to compete, grow, and represent Memorial with confidence. The gyms are buzzing, the players are locked in, and we are ready for a season full of memorable moments. This year both teams bring not only skill to the team, but depth as well. This will allow us to compete nicely with the rest of our division.

Supporting our teams every step of the way is our spirited cheerleading squad. They bring the hype, the heart, and the leadership that keeps our crowds energized and our athletes motivated. Their dedication behind the scenes which includes hours of practice, conditioning, and perfecting routines shows up in every performance. Right alongside them, our dance team adds a creative spark to school events with choreography that blends precision, passion, and personality. They are not just performers, they are culture-builders who help set the tone for school pride.

This year, we are especially excited to welcome wrestling to Memorial Middle School’s winter lineup. As our newest athletic offering, the wrestling program gives students a fresh opportunity to build strength, discipline, and confidence on the mat. Early interest has been incredible, and the program is already shaping into a powerful outlet for students who thrive on individual challenge and team unity. This has been in the works for a while now and this year we were finally able to put it together, thanks in part to a very generous donation from the Morganthaler family. Wrestling brings with it a sense of individuality, teamwork, drive and passion that our participants will experience throughout the season. It teaches the students to dig deep down and truly find out how to overcome obstacles.

With every sport, every practice, and every student athlete, Memorial continues to reinforce what makes our community special: opportunity, teamwork, and the belief that every student has a place to grow. We are proud of our winter sports lineup and even prouder of the young people who give it life. Here’s to a season of effort, improvement, and school spirit. Let’s make this winter one to remember.

By Jill Lauren Quaranta, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent

This winter, the district is excited to bring back the Winter Learning Academy for students that may benefit from additional academic support. The program will be held on Saturdays from January 31 to March 28, 2026 and is designed to help students build skills, confidence, and a strong foundation for success.

Students are recommended for the Winter Learning Academy by their teachers. By offering sessions on Saturdays, we are able to provide extra support for these students in addition to the support they receive during the regular school day.

During the Winter Learning Academy, students will work closely with teachers who provide targeted instruction aligned to what students are already learning in the classroom. This focused approach allows students to ask questions, practice important skills, and receive individualized support in a welcoming and encouraging environment.

The program is not just about academics - it also helps students develop positive learning habits, stay engaged, and feel more confident in their abilities. The goal is to make learning supportive and enjoyable while helping students strengthen in areas where they may need extra help.

If your student is recommended for the Winter Learning Academy, we will reach out to provide you with more information about the program and answer any questions you may have. 

As always, the district encourages our school community members to visit our website at www.eatontown.org to find important information, including upcoming events, important announcements, district information and reports, as well as resources that can assist parents/caregivers and other community members with a wide array of topics. Some of our resources include:

On this page families will find educational resources to support their students' learning needs, including details about what students are learning in school each month and exercises parents/caregivers can use to practice reading, writing, and mathematics skills at home with their students.

https://www.eatontown.org/page/family-education-resources

Ensuring the social and emotional well-being of students and staff helps us to cultivate a supportive school climate and culture.

https://www.eatontown.org/page/sel

Image courtesy of CASEL.org

Connections: Find groups of 4 words that have something in common with each other.

Click to play: https://connections.swellgarfo.com/game/-OgrXhOiIdq7-7MIYc9q

NJ School Board Recognition Month - January

Black History Month - February

Women's History Month - March

Read Across America Day - March 2, 2026

SEL Day - March 3, 2026

Eatontown Public Schools | 5 Grant Avenue, Eatontown, NJ 07724
732-542-1055 | www.eatontown.org

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